Chamber bylaws vote causes concern

A procedural vote briefly shook what was otherwise a smooth meeting of Deming-Luna County Chamber of Commerce members.

Board member Edward Khanbabian alleged the chamber bylaws for nominating new board members was not followed. With seven names on the ballot, he said only four followed the bylaws.

According to the bylaws, members running for a board of directors seat must have five signatures from other chamber members. The discussion went further with some saying bylaws had not been followed for some time in different categories.

Board member Ernie Vineyard suggested it would be appropriate by Robert's Rules of Order to suspend the rules via a vote. Board member Micki Shillito moved that no matter what happened in the past, the group should ratify the decision of the nominating committee and move forward with the ballot as presented.

A chamber member from the floor stated two wrongs don't make a right and the bylaws should be followed. After further discussion by board members, a vote was taken with five voting yes to proceed and three voting no to follow the bylaws.

The board did not specify during the meeting which candidates followed the bylaws and who did not.

Also in the meeting, the Banquet Committee discussed the upcoming chamber Rock 'n' Deming Gala fundraiser slated for Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The crowd of 21 local members were asked to volunteer to help with the event.

Advertisement

Members were also informed that tickets are still available for the gala at a cost of $35 a person. Tickets can be purchased from board members or from the chamber office.

A Chamber accomplishment list was handed out to members. The list shared 37 of this years accomplishments. Some of those listed were four scholarship were given to Deming High School students at a total of $1,200, Decembers Christmas lighting contest gave out $1,275 in cash prizes to four local families and a total of 60 new members joined the chamber along with a total of 21 ribbon cuttings. The next chamber letter will have all 37 accomplishments listed for the public to see.

Chamber director Mary Galbraith announced the 2013-2014 membership directory and visitors' guide which consists of a list of annual events, a membership roster and a business directory are hot off the press.

A question and answer period was held at the end of the evening meeting where one suggestion was made by a member. The suggestion was to have the revised bylaws be looked at by a local attorney in which the board members agreed.